Name: French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta; 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works well); 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream (or half and half for lighter option); 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Optional: 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze

Description

A comforting casserole blending the rich flavors of French onion soup with tender chicken and orzo pasta for a satisfying weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works well)
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream (or half and half for lighter option)
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional: 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze

Instructions

Caramelize the Onions: In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply golden and caramelized. Stir in the minced garlic during the last 1-2 minutes.
Add Orzo and Chicken: Stir in the orzo and cook for 2 minutes to lightly toast. Add the shredded chicken, thyme, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if using. Mix thoroughly.
Pour in Liquids: Add the chicken broth and cream to the skillet. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
Add Cheese: Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and creamy.
Bake the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella over the top. Bake uncovered for 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Serve: Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Notes

Caramelization is key; take your time with the onions. Experiment with different cheeses to create unique flavors.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: French

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: casserole, chicken, orzo, French onion, dinner, comfort food